RTONZ-ITO

NZ’s funding of its tourism system should be re-examined and questions asked about how RTOs will be able to fund destination management.

More than 110 inbound tour operators and agents have converged on Auckland’s Crowne Plaza over the last two days for the annual Regional Tourism New Zealand inbound event.

One of the key challenges for RTOs is making sure government funding does not run out at the end of 2022.

Aoraki Tourism has become the latest RTO to be absorbed by an economic development agency with Timaru District Council providing $350,000 funding.

A lack of funding at smaller RTOs could mean some regions will not be able to fully participate in the drive to boost domestic demand, says Regional Tourism New Zealand executive officer Charlie Ives.

Destination Rotorua chief executive Michelle Templer on the prime minister Jacinda Ardern’s visit this week and how the city is extending a warm haere mai to New Zealanders.

Loren Heaphy, general manager of destination and attraction at ChristchurchNZ, on shifting perceptions, welcoming an Australian audience, and the potential of the domestic tourism market.

Destination Queenstown acting chief executive Ann Lockhart on remaining nimble and relevant in a fast-moving environment and launching a recovery plan which tells Queenstown’s story from the inside out and lays the foundations to inspire a connection with future visitors.

GM of destination Steve Armitage on supporting industry and re-establishing Auckland’s tourism sector.

ChristchurchNZ’s Loren Heaphy on the impacts of Covid-19, the city’s recovery package, and the importance of togetherness in a crisis.

Destination Rotorua’s annual Chinese New Year event has taken place in Auckland as the Year of the Rat is ushered in.

Tourism Central Otago’s newly established Tourism Advisory Board has been challenged by to find some “quick wins” by the local regional council.

A record number of inbound travel companies will attend the Regional Tourism NZ (RTNZ) inbound trade event in Auckland tomorrow.